The Art of the Impossible.     The era between the Star Trek TOS movies and the beginning of The Next Generation has a lot of events that are referenced in the shows but were never seen, which is fertile ground for the novels to cover. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt welcome a new host to the show in Jonathan Koan to help us talk about the next book in The Lost Era, The Art of the Impossible. We discuss the Cardassian and Klingon conflict, the juxtaposition, Curzon, many characters, other things, our ratings and final thoughts.    News A New Host (00:01:47)                  Feature: The Art of the Impossible Cardassian and Klingon Conflict (00:14:18) The Juxtaposition (00:30:47) Curzon (00:33:32) Many Characters (00:41:17) Other Characters (00:50:18) Ratings (00:54:34) Final Thoughts (00:59:03)          Hosts Matthew Rushing, Casey Pettitt and Jonathan Koan  Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Rebels: The Liberated.     The revelations finally come in the final book in this trilogy, how the Tiffnaki came to be on the planet and just who the Liberated are that have taken over Emissary's Sanctuary. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about end of the Deep Space Nine trilogy Rebels with The Liberated. We discuss the natives, the Liberated, the past, how bad was it, our ratings and final thoughts.  There is a lot of news as we discuss an audiobook and new book announcement, discuss comics and canon, then review Star Trek #9 and The Motion Picture: Echoes #2.   News New Audiobook (00:03:04) New Book Announcement (00:04:50) Comics and Canon (00:08:30) Star Trek #9 (00:11:21) The Motion Picture: Echoes #2 (00:15:20)                  Feature: The Liberated The Natives (00:18:40) The Liberated (00:27:31) The Past (00:32:38) How Bad Was It (00:35:40) Ratings (00:38:30) Final Thoughts (00:40:12)          Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Casey Pettitt  Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Rebels: The Courageous.     Deep Space Nine is no longer under Starfleet's care as the Bajorans take running the station for a test drive, while Sisko and the crew of the Defiant find themselves in a no-win Prime Directive scenario on one of the strangest worlds you'll ever read about for Star Trek. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about the second book in the Deep Space Nine trilogy Rebels, The Courageous. We discuss Sisko and his group's story, the Defiant, Jadzia and Julian, an Orb experience, our ratings and final thoughts.  In the news we talk about post Picard literature, then we review Star Trek #6, Defiant #2, The Illyrian Enigma #4 and The Dog of War #1.       News Post Picard Literature (00:02:56) Star Trek #6 (00:13:03) Defiant #2 (00:18:02) The Illyrian Enigma #4 (00:22:01) The Dog of War #1 (00:28:31)             Feature: The Courageous Sisko and Crew (00:34:05) Jadzia, Julian and the Defiant (00:37:59) An Orb Experience (00:45:01) Ratings (00:45:01) Final Thoughts (00:54:09)       Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt  Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Dark Matters: Ghost Dance.     The crew of the U.S.S. Voyager finds itself tasked with one of the most interesting missions they've had as they try to find a way of ridding the universe of the mutated dark matter. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about Dark Matters: Ghost Dance. We discuss Paris and Chakotay, the Entity, the Romulan story, meanwhile on Voyager, Harry is in love again, our ratings and final thoughts.  In the news we have a new comic announcement plus our reviews of Resurgence #5, Star Trek #5 and Star Trek: Defiant #1.      News Comic Announcement (00:03:51) Resurgence #5 (00:06:01) Star Trek #5 (00:10:22) Star Trek: Defiant #1 (00:14:06)                  Feature: Dark Matters: Ghost Dance Paris and Chakotay (00:18:17) The Entity (00:28:46) The Romulan Story (00:32:35) Meanwhile on Voyager (00:37:49) Harry is in Love Again (00:43:43) Ratings (00:45:24) Final Thoughts (00:47:49)         Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt  Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Rebels: The Conquered.     The mission of Captain Sisko was to help Bajor get ready for Federation membership so what better way to do that than to hand over the station to the Bajorians for sixty days to see if they are ready for the responsibility. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about the first book in a trilogy, Rebels: The Conquered. We discuss Emissary's Sanctuary, a strange mission, perspective, Quark has a point, Dax in command, the Founders, tone, our ratings and final thoughts.  In a jam-packed news section we talk about the release of The High Country, a new comic announcement and review three new comic issues.    News The High Country Release (00:03:32) New Comic Announcement (00:04:53) Resurgence #4 (00:07:39) Illyrian Enigma #2 (00:10:14) Star Trek #4 (00:13:38)                 Feature: The Conquered Emissary's Sanctuary (00:20:54) A Strange Mission (00:29:38) Perspective (00:37:19) Quark has a Point (00:44:55) Dax in Command (00:49:32) The Founders (00:53:20) Tone (00:55:16) Ratings (00:58:59) Final Thoughts (01:01:53)        Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt  Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Dark Matters: Cloak and Dagger. By the time that Star Trek: Voyager was released, there were not as many numbered books coming out for the series, so compared with The Next Generation or The Original Series, the amount of literature for Voyager seems miniscule. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about the nineteenth Voyager novel, Dark Matters: Cloak and Dagger. We discuss the needle's eye, the Shepherds, a mysterious character, disappearing act, it's short, bedfellows, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we have a lot of comics to review starting with Star Trek #3, Resurgence #3 and Trill, plus a book announcement. News Book Announcement (00:03:38) Star Trek #3 (00:06:52) Star Trek: Resurgence #3 (00:13:02) Trill (00:16:06) Feature: Cloak and Dagger The Needle's Eye (00:19:31) The Shepherds (00:23:02) A Mysterious Character (00:34:26) Disappearing Act (00:36:44) It's Short (00:41:28) Bedfellows (00:44:14) Ratings (00:46:56) Final Thoughts (00:50:17) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Guest David Mack Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Star Trek: First Contact: The Making of the Classic Film. Star Trek is one of the longest running franchises and yet the amount of reference books, art books and making-of books that come out is sorely lacking compared to something like Star Wars. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about Star Trek: First Contact: The Making of the Classic Film. We discuss the presentation, after Generations, story points, new Enterprise, new Borg, finding a director, or ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we talk about the end of the Stargazer comic mini series as well as the Ferengi one-shot. News Stargazer #3 (00:04:36) Star Trek: Ferengi (00:15:39) Feature: Star Trek: First Contact: The Making of the Classic Film Presentation (00:20:54) After Generations (00:25:56) Story Points (00:31:11) New Enterprise (00:37:12) New Borg (00:41:58) Finding a Director (00:45:46) Ratings (00:50:30) Final Thoughts (00:53:12) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Warped. Star Trek books had a long history of event hardcover novels for The Original Series as well as The Next Generation, but for Deep Space Nine, the trend seemed to grind to a halt. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about the first DS9 hardcover, Warped. We discuss early DS9, a Bajoran coup, a license of freedom, the truth will set you free, a spiritual side, the voices our ratings and final thoughts. In the news second we look at the second issue of Lower Decks and the first issue of a new series called Star Trek. News Lower Decks #1 (00:03:17) Star Trek #1 (00:07:32) Feature: Warped Early DS9 (00:15:32) Bajoran Coup (00:22:24) A License of Freedom (00:31:49) The Truth Will Set You Free (00:37:25) A Spiritual Side (00:44:18) The Voices (00:51:16) Ratings (00:58:46) Final Thoughts (01:02:25) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Second Self. Star Trek: Picard lead to the end of the lit-verse for Star Trek which in turn has opened the doors for writers to fill in the gaps between the previous shows and the new series. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about Second Self. We discuss the structure, living with the past, history, gritty, complexity of life, plain simple Garak, hope, hypocrites, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we have so much to talk about with new book news, two new comics coming, as well as our review of Stargazer #2, Lower Decks #1, Mirror War: Troi and Star Trek 400. News New Book News (00:02:56) Illyrian Enigma Announcement (00:05:28) Star Trek Defiant Announcement (00:09:20) Stargazer #2 (00:14:37) Lower Decks #1 (00:22:57) Mirror War: Troi (00:25:38) Star Trek 400 (00:28:24) Feature: Second Self The Structure (00:36:01) Living With the Past (00:42:46) History (00:51:45) Gritty (00:57:26) Complexity of Life (01:02:48) Plain Simple Garak (01:06:59) Hope (01:17:56) Hypocrites (01:25:03) Ratings (01:28:36) Final Thoughts (01:31:20) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Federation. Star Trek books and comics have been a backbone of the franchise from almost the beginning of the series, getting fans through many lean years when there was little hope of more stories being told onscreen. In this 350th episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt celebrate by talking about the beloved book, Federation. We discuss it being a monumental book, Cochrane, war, Thorsen, connecting the universe, bringing the generations together, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we discuss 350 episodes of the show and review Mirror War 7. News Episode 350 (00:01:51) Mirror War #7 (00:08:13) Feature: Federation A Monumental Book (00:12:46) Cochrane (00:16:50) War (00:30:07) Thorsen (00:34:55) Connecting the Universe (00:43:21) Bringing the Generations Together (00:47:08) Ratings (00:57:05) Final Thoughts (00:59:49) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

New Earth: Thin Air. The planet of Belle Terre has been through hell as have the colonists from the Federation but what was thought to be a random Klaud attack may have made the planet uninhabitable for life, forever unless the crew of the Enterprise can come up with a solution in a matter of days. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about New Earth: Thin Air. We discuss a new problem, bluffing, a sickness, the solution, a death, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we have two Mirror War comics to discuss, issue six and the one-shot, Sisko. News Mirror War #6 (00:03:10) Mirror War: Sisko (00:07:11) Feature: Thin Air A New Problem (00:13:04) Bluffing (00:20:01) A Sickness (00:23:57) The Solution (00:30:36) A Death (00:35:59) Ratings (00:40:11) Final Thoughts (00:42:39) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Last Roundup. What happened to The Original Series crew after their "final" adventure in The Undiscovered Country has been the subject of a few different books throughout the years, each one giving us a new "final" hurrah for this storied crew. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome back Casey Pettitt to help us talk about The Last Roundup. We discuss discovering the undiscovered, Kirk, life isn't fair, making tough choices, hate leads to suffering, Day and a Year, one more time, ratings and our final thoughts. In the news we discuss the brand new audio drama coming out, as well as judge some books by their covers and talk about The Mirror War Data and third issues. News A New Audio Drama (00:03:08) Judging Books by Their Covers (00:06:08) The Mirror War: Data and Issue 3 (00:11:58) Feature: The Last Roundup Discovering the Undiscovered (00:17:21) Kirk (00:23:16) Life Isn't Fair (00:28:43) Making Tough Choices (00:38:02) Hate Leads to Suffering (00:44:02) Day and a Year (00:50:44) One More Time (00:54:05) Ratings (00:58:27) Final Thoughts (01:01:42) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Star Trek: Coda. The end of the litverse has come and gone but the feelings about the series continue to ripple through fandom as they digest the way the series was brought to a conclusion. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome back Casey Pettitt to help them discuss the Star Trek: Coda series. We discuss coming to the end, Moments Asunder, the threat, other things in the first book, The Ashes of Tomorrow, Deep Space Nine threads, other things in the second book, Oblivion's Gate, hope, the final product and our final thoughts. Feature: Star Trek: Coda Coming to the End (00:04:46) Moments Asunder (00:16:04) The Threat (00:26:42) Other Things in the First Book (00:32:04) The Ashes of Tomorrow (00:37:02) Deep Space Nine Threads (00:42:38) Other Things in the Second Gun (00:50:49) Oblivion's Gate (00:53:10) Hope (01:04:25) The Final Product (01:10:47) Final Thoughts (01:19:04) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Raise the Dawn. It has been a long road for the crew of DS9, many of them have been put through the fire and the station itself has paid the ultimate price, meaning there is nothing to do but pick through the rubble and move forward. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome Casey Pettitt back to talk about Raise the Dawn. We discuss, Emissary no more, false wormhole, a dramatic entrance, contrast, a new station, is she evil, Odo, another cliffhanger, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we talk about the release of the final book in the Coda series. News Oblivion's Gate Release (00:04:38) Feature: Raise the Dawn Emissary No More (00:07:43) False Wormhole (00:25:04) Dramatic Entrance (00:32:49) Contrast (00:32:49) A New Station (00:37:27) Is She Evil? (00:52:45) Odo (00:56:02) Another Cliffhanger (00:59:07) Ratings (01:04:00) Final Thoughts (01:09:35) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Struggle Within. The Federation continues to deal with the fallout of the Borg invasion as well as the recent secession of Andor, which is leading the Federation to look for allies to join the Khitomer Accords anywhere they can find them. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson are joined by Casey Pettitt to talk about the next book in the Typhon Pact series, The Struggle Within. We discuss it being an ebook only, picking up the pieces, just listen, looking for balance, nonviolence, just another group, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section of the show we review issue number one in the Mirror War comic. News Mirror War #1 (00:03:58) Feature: The Struggle Within Ebook Only (00:15:59) Picking Up the Pieces (00:21:34) Just Listen (00:27:54) Looking for Balance (00:32:18) Nonviolence (00:41:02) Just Another Group (00:44:29) Ratings (00:50:13) Final Thoughts (00:53:34) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Recovery. The lost years for Kirk, Spock and McCoy have been eventful yet the fabric of the universe seems to be finding way to weave them back together as the time of The Motion Picture draws ever nearer. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome Casey Pettitt to help them talk about Recovery. We discuss, coming to the final book, Kirk, Spock, the Recovery, the Tholians, setting up The Motion Picture, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we talk about the release of Star Trek: Coda: Moments Asunder as well as the future for Star Trek literature. News Begun the Coda Has! (00:02:35) Feature: Recovery Coming Into the Final Book (00:06:48) Kirk (00:11:15) Spock (00:22:34) The Recovery (00:26:15) The Tholians (00:37:56) Setting Up The Motion Picture (00:43:46) Ratings (00:48:04) Final Thoughts (00:53:57) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Fallen Gods. The fallout of the Andorian secession from the Federation reverberates clear across the quadrants as the U.S.S. Titan's Andorian members find themselves facing a difficult choice, go home to Andor to help repopulate the species or be placed in a less sensitive posting in Starfleet. LIn this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about the Titan novel, Fallen Gods. We discuss political separation, fear, Ta'ith, One One Six, the Andorian/Tholian plan, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we review the penultimate issue of Year Five, #24. News Year Five, Issue 24 (00:03:06) Feature: Fallen Gods Political Separation (00:19:21) Fear (00:26:33) Ta'ith (00:34:05) One One Six (00:43:26) The Andorian/Tholian Plan (00:50:19) Ratings (00:56:51) Final Thoughts (01:00:26) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Lost Years. The end of the five year mission for the crew of the Enterprise would bring many changes by the time fans saw them again in The Motion Picture and filling in those gaps between the two was a question for years. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about The Lost Years. We discuss our first readings, filling in the gaps, Kirk, Spock, McCoy, crazy Vulcans, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we review the latest issue of Year Five, #20. News Issue #20 (00:03:39) Feature: The Lost Years Read Before (00:12:41) Filling in the Gaps (00:15:16) Kirk (00:18:55) Spock (00:28:25) McCoy (00:40:49) Crazy Vulcans (00:47:37) Ratings (00:53:54) Final Thoughts (00:58:05) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Too Long a Sacrifice. In the middle of the Dominion War, DS9 suffers a bombing on the Promenade at one of the restaurants, as well as a rash of murders that puts a big trade deal in jeopardy which could have dire consequences on the war effort for Starfleet. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones discuss the comic series Too Long a Sacrifice. We discuss the art for the comic, all four of the issues and give our ratings. In the news section we talk about the upcoming comic releases and have an announcement you'll want to tune in for! News Upcoming Comics (00:03:33) An Announcement! (00:05:42) Feature: Too Long a Sacrifice The Art (00:07:37) Issue 1 (00:13:14) Issue 2 (00:23:05) Issue 3 (00:37:00) Issue 4 (00:53:21) Ratings (01:01:13) Final Thoughts (01:04:31) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Gods of Night. As an apocalyptic Borg attack on the Federation begins, the crews of Starfleet's finest starships must rise to the occasion to defend everything they know and love. Meanwhile, the crashed wreck of the Starship Columbia may hold the key to explaining the Borg's vengeful invasion of the Federation. What happened 200 years ago that caused Columbia to crash, and how did it end up in the Gamma Quadrant? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther are joined by The 602 Club's Matthew Rushing to discuss the first book in the Destiny trilogy by David Mack: Gods of Night. We talk about the mystery of the Columbia, the actions of the MACOs that led to her destruction, the mysterious Caeliar, Picard & Crusher's story, Riker & Troi on the Titan, an emotional moment for one of the Voyager crew, the cliffhanger ending, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. In the news segment, we report on four new hardcover books announced at Destination Star Trek Birmingham: The Art of Star Trek: Discovery by Paula M. Block & Terry J. Erdmann, Star Trek: Voyager: A Celebration by Ben Robinson, The Autobiography of Kathryn Janeway "edited" by Una McCormack, and The Artistry of Dan Curry by Dan Curry & Ben Robinson. We also review issue #7 of Star Trek: Year Five and respond to feedback from the Babel Conference for Literary Treks 285: Those Bloody Mind Control Revolts! News Four New Books for 2020 (00:03:50) Star Trek Year Five #7 Comic Review (00:13:15) Listener Feedback (00:21:41) Feature: Gods of Night First Thoughts on Destiny (00:29:59) U.S.S. Aventine Finds the Columbia (00:40:29) Mutiny and Desperation (00:45:23) The Caeliar (00:53:08) Picard and the Borg (01:05:40) Life on the U.S.S. Titan (01:10:44) A Heartbreaking Voyager Moment (01:17:43) The End of Book One (01:23:25) Ratings (01:29:21) Final Thoughts (01:35:16) Hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guest Matthew Rushing Production Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Spectre. Captain James T. Kirk: a name that has blazed across the quadrant for over a hundred years, shaping political events and influencing hundreds of worlds. However, his influence is not limited merely to our universe. During his first five-year mission, Kirk convinced Spock from the Mirror Universe to rebel against the evil Terran Empire, and the consequences of that action have now caught up with the Starfleet legend in the 24th century! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson welcome Matthew Rushing to talk about William Shatner's Spectre. We discuss the Shatnerverse, Kirk in the 24th century, responsibility, Kirk and Scotty, looking in the mirror, Janeway, a mirror imposter, the prime directive and our ratings. In the news we review Waypoint #3. News Waypoint # 3 (00:04:33) Feature: Spectre The Shatnerverse (00:23:07) Kirk in the 24th Century (00:28:13) Weight of Responsibility (00:35:49) Kirk and Scotty (00:40:19) Looking in the Mirror (00:43:23) Kate Janeway (00:51:58) Mirror Imposter (00:56:44) The Prime Directive (01:00:26) Ratings (01:07:43) Final Thoughts (01:10:37) Hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guest Matthew Rushing Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Prime Directive. There are a few books in the history of Star Trek literature that could be considered "essential reading." Books that capture the essence of Star Trek, and showcase the very best of what makes Star Trek great. The subject of this weeks episode is one such book, and it highlights one of the longest-running philosophical debates in the Star Trek universe. In this last episode of Literary Treks for host Matthew Rushing, he's joined by Dan Gunter and Bruce Gibson to talk about Prime Directive. We discuss the book's impact, the Enterprise disgrace, the many storylines, McCoy in the middle, catastrophe, the prime directive and our ratings. In a packed news segment we talk about the latest issues of New Visions and Boldly Go, the covers of The Long Mirage and Mirror Broken as well as some of 2016's best books. News One Last Time (00:02:39) New Visions #13 (00:05:27) Boldly Go #3 (00:10:26) The Long Mirage Cover (00:16:07) Mirror Broken Comic Cover (00:21:34) Best of 2016 (00:24:06) Feature: Prime Directive The Book's Impact (00:31:55) The Enterprise Disgrace (00:35:28) The Tropes of Star Trek (00:41:30) Many Storylines (00:43:16) McCoy in the Middle (00:49:31) Catastrophe (00:56:06) The Prime Directive (01:03:34) Ratings (01:10:49) Final Thoughts (01:13:25) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Gold Key VOL.3, Part 2. Shoot first and ask questions later! Blatant disregard for the prime directive! Spock waving to the crew and pretending to be a god! It can only mean one thing: once again we dive deep into the strange alternate reality of the Star Trek Gold Key comics! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson talk about the second part of Gold Key comics Vol. 3. We discuss the issues Day of the Inquisitors, The Cosmic Cavemen and The Highjacked Planet. In the news section Matthew asks Bruce and Dan a pop question. News Pop Question (00:02:08) Feature: Gold Key VOL.3, Part 2 Day of the Inquisitors (00:10:10) The Cosmic Cavemen (00:28:12) The Highjacked Planet (00:39:54) Final Thoughts (00:53:56) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

The Jackal’s Trick. A Klingon usurper, bent on seizing control of the Klingon Empire. A dangerous con artist who uses trickery to control an army of disgraced Klingons. And enough plot twists and turns to make your head spin! All this and more in the second book of John Jackson Miller's epic Star Trek: Prey trilogy! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson talk The Jackal’s Trick. We discuss how jam-packed it is, Cross, expanding Star Trek, the Discommendated, pulling the strings, because it feels good, things not seen before and our ratings. In news this week we talk about the upcoming TNG/Aliens comic crossover, Boldly Go #2 and the latest ebook sales. News TNG/Aliens Crossover (00:03:28) Boldly Go #2 (00:06:09) Book Sales (00:10:50) Feature: The Jackal’s Trick Jam-Packed (00:15:33) Cross Dresser (00:22:02) Expanding Star Trek (00:26:13) The Discommendated (00:29:41) Pulling the Strings (00:34:51) Because it Feels Good (00:39:19) Things Never Though of in Star Trek (00:48:59) One Last Question (00:54:11) Ratings (00:56:00) Final Thoughts (00:58:22) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson   Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Gold Key Vol.3, Part 1. Spock with 5-inch tall ears! Bored megalomaniacs with aspirations of world domination! Huge rocket flames bursting forth from the Enterprise's warp nacelles! It can only mean one thing: that's right, we're diving into the Gold Key Star Trek comics once again! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson talk the first 3 issues of IDW’s Gold Key Vol. 3. We discuss The Dark Traveler, The Enterprise Mutiny, The Museum at the End of Time as well as make a special announcement. We have a busy news segment as we talk about the release of the updated Star Trek Encyclopedia, the book cover for Control and the premiere issue of To Boldly Go. News New Star Trek Encyclopedia (00:03:41) Control Book Cover (00:07:23) To Boldly Go #1 (00:10:20) Feature: Gold Key Vol.3, Part 1 The Dark Traveler (00:25:28) The Enterprise Mutiny (00:36:18) The Museum at the End of Time (00:46:21) Final Thoughts (00:57:34) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Time Lock. Defending the fabric of time itself from criminal elements, protecting the Federation from all manner of temporal distortions and time-related technologies, and ensuring that overzealous Starfleet officers don't muck about in time: it's just another day at the office for the agents of the Federation's Department of Temporal Investigations. But when soldiers of a foreign government attempt to steal dangerous temporal artifacts, it's up to the DTI to stop them at any cost! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson talk about the new Department of Temporal Investigations ebook, Time Lock. We discuss the confusing nature of time in the story, technobabble, the character, dangerous power, wanting more and our ratings. In the news we take a look at the premiere issue of the Waypoint comic and remind everyone that Prey: Hell’s Heart is out now! News WayPoint #1 (00:03:06) Daylily (00:08:21) Prey: Hell’s Heart (00:15:28) Feature: Time Lock Another DTI Adventure (00:18:38) Very Confusing (00:19:33) Technobabble Run Amuck (00:22:40) The Characters (00:24:17) Dangerous Power (00:31:11) Left Hanging (00:35:03) Ratings (00:37:52) Final Thoughts (00:40:27) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Rules of Accusation: Paula M. Block and Terry J. Erdmann. Deep Space Nine: for the past few years, the hallmark of this series has been change. Characters have moved on, the setting has changed, and DS9 doesn't quite feel like it used to. However, every once in awhile, it's good to return to familiar territory. In this week's e-book, we do just that as the old gang of Quark, Rom, Leeta, Zek, and even Odo return to some very familiar roles. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts, Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson talk about the new ebook, Rules of Accusation. We have a surprise interview with Paula Block and Terry Erdmann from the Shore Leave convention and then we discuss this latest foray into the Ferengi world with some of the best loved characters from DS9. In the news segment we talk about the upcoming Boldly Go comic, Ongoing’s penultimate issue, New Visions’ take on The Cage and all the latest news from Shore Leave. News Boldly Go Comic (00:03:36) Ongoing #59 (00:06:26) New Visions: The Cage (00:12:01) Shore Leave Convention (00:15:03) Big News (00:17:20) Shore Leave Interview (00:22:26) Feature: Rules of Accusation The Perfect eBook (00:35:36) Time With Characters (00:37:48) Feels Like an Episode (00:42:36) Fun References (00:44:14) We Need Blueprints (00:46:43) 1000 PADDs (00:49:43) Morn (00:51:19) Ratings (00:55:40) Final Thoughts (00:58:20) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guests Paula M. Block and Terry J. Erdmann Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

The Romulan War: Beneath the Raptor’s Wing. The Romulan War, for much of the history of Star Trek, this early conflict between Earth and the Romulan Star Empire lay shrouded in mystery. It was hoped that Star Trek: Enterprise might give us a glimpse of that momentous event, but alas, the series ended too soon. As is often the case, the novels came to the rescue! Now, finally, Star Trek fans could find out what exactly happened during the bloody years of the Romulan War! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Bruce Gibson to talk about The Romulan War: Beneath the Raptor’s Wing. We discuss the expansive scope, Columbia’s disappearance, character work, media in wartime, war - what is it good for?, losing the NXs, ratings and final thoughts. In the news segment we judge The Jackel’s Trick by it’s cover and then talk about the blurb for it as well as Headlong Flight, The Long Mirage, Architects of Infinity and Section 31: Control. News Another Cover to Judge (00:02:15) Headlong Flight Blurb (00:07:29) The Long Mirage Blurb (00:10:19) Architects of Infinity Blurb (00:14:17) Section 31: Control Blurb (00:19:01) Feature: Beneath the Raptor’s Wing Continuing the Enterprise Relaunch (00:25:01) Expansive Scope (00:26:13) Columbia Disappears (00:39:48) Character Work (00:41:52) Media in Wartime (00:52:02) War, What is it Good For? (00:58:39) Losing the NXs (01:07:52) Ratings (01:12:11) Final Thoughts (01:15:37) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Star Trek Classics: Beginnings. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have Star Trek: The Next Generation comics done in the style of the old Gold Key comics? Well, wonder no more! Crazy, incoherent plots, characters that only sort-of resemble the ones we know and love, and Starfleet officers acting in morally dubious ways abound in the subject of this week’s episode of Literary Treks! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Bruce Gibson to talk about Star Trek Classics: Beginnings. We discuss our long tradition, Where No One Has Gone Before, The Spirit in the Sky, mixing up issues, the Q Trilogy, Here Today, ratings and our final thoughts. In the news segment we judge Purgatory’s Key and Hell’s Heart by their covers, discuss their blurbs and give our reactions to the news about Waypoint, the new anthology comic coming from IDW. News Book Covers to Judge (00:02:54) Purgatory’s Key Cover and Blurb (00:03:36) Hell’s Heart Cover and Blurb (00:07:45) Waypoint Comic (00:15:04) Feature: Star Trek Classics: Beginnings A Long Tradition (00:23:33) Where No One Has Gone Before (00:25:45) The Spirit in the Sky (00:32:42) Mixing Up Issues (00:3600:) The Q Trilogy (00:40:44) Here Today (01:01:34) Ratings (01:11:21) Final Thoughts (01:17:17) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

The Last Will Be First: Tristan Riddell. On November 17th, 2012 a new show was added to the Trek.fm network that was dedicated to the books and comics of Star Trek and that would also allow the authors a place to come and talk about their work, giving fans behind-the-scenes access to the stories. With Strange New Worlds winner and Star Trek author Dayton Ward as the first show guest, Literary Treks boldly went. In this very special episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Bruce Gibson and Strange New Worlds contestant Tristan Riddell to talk about his DS9 story The Last Will Be First. Then as a special treat and for the first time ever, we present the audiobook version of his story to the world. Interview: Tristan Riddell Thank You (00:01:25) A Trek.fm Author (00:03:48) Tristan’s Star Trek Story (00:06:57) Kept Him Going (00:08:38) Entering the Contest (00:11:48) Two Weeks to Write Something (00:14:30) The Process of Strange New Worlds (00:23:23) Tristan’s Book Picks (00:28:43) Creating the Audio Book Version (00:31:54) Feature: The Last Will Be First Read by Tristan Riddell and The Girl (00:34:14) Final Thoughts (01:26:09) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guests Bruce Gibson Tristan Riddell Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Star Trek/Legion of Super-Heroes Vol. 1. Superheroes in Star Trek? Star Trek has attempted a number of ambitious crossovers in the comic world in recent years. The universes of Doctor Who, Planet of the Apes, and Green Lantern have all been visited by our intrepid Starfleet heroes. These are always a fun diversion from the main storylines of the comics, giving a whole new meaning to exploring “strange new worlds.” In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Legion hero Bruce Gibson to talk about Star Trek/Legion of Super-Heroes Vol. 1. We discuss our familiarity with the Legion of Superheroes, bridging the universes, immortal issues, trapped in a purple orb, characterization, art and our ratings. In the news segment we look inside the new travel guide to Vulcan and discuss the latest issues of New Visions and Manifest Destiny. News Inside Look and the Vulcan Travel Guide (00:02:22) Eaglemoss Comics Collection (00:07:45) New Visions #11 (00:13:29) Manifest Destiny #2 (00:17:23) Feature: Star Trek/Legion of Super-Heroes Vol. 1 Familiarity with the Legion of Superheroes (00:24:08) Bridging the Universes (00:28:37) Immortal Issues (00:39:33) Trapped in a Purple Orb (00:45:39) Characterization (00:48:43) Art (00:54:18) Ratings (00:58:51) Final Thoughts (01:01:43) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Kobayashi Maru. One of the things that disappointed fans the most when Enterprise was canceled was the loss of seeing the Romulan War play out, so as the relaunch hit it’s stride it continued the series’ build into that storyline. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson are joined by Section 31 agent Brandon-Shea Mutala to talk about Star Trek Enterprise: Kobayashi Maru. We discuss Archer coming into his own, wrong things for the wrong reasons, a shadowy man, a shadowy problem, overly long and not a lot of plot points, the Kobayashi Maru, historical connections and our ratings. In the news segment we look at the upcoming release of The Star Trek Book as well as something for free. News The Star Trek Book (00:02:15) Something for Free (00:06:48) Feature: Kobayashi Maru Dan’s Still Missing (00:10:31) Archer Coming Into His Own (00:12:54) Wrong Things for the Wrong Reasons (00:18:36) Shadowy Man (00:32:56) Shadowy Problem (00:42:09) Overly Long, Not Enough Plot (00:46:50) The Kobayashi Maru (00:52:47) Historical Connections (01:01:54) Ratings (01:06:22) Final Thoughts (01:10:04) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Brandon-Shea Mutala Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Burden of Knowledge. The Original Series is an era of Star Trek that lends itself to being depicted in the pages of a comic book: bright colors and outlandish plots all make for entertaining comic stories! However, what makes these stories quintessential Star Trek is the fact that on top of being entertaining, they give us the opportunity to think about issues in a way that other forms of entertainment don’t. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Bruce Gibson to talk about the Star Trek comics Burden of Knowledge. We discuss the artwork, Uncertain Perceptions, A Failure to Communicate, A Matter of Perspective, The Burden of Knowledge and our ratings. In the news segment we talk about the last issue of Starfleet Academy and the first issue of Manifest Destiny. News Starfleet Acadamy #5 (00:02:18) Manifest Destiny #1 (00:07:35) Feature: Burden of Knowledge TOS Comics (00:12:02) The Artwork (00:14:05) Uncertain Perceptions (00:17:08) A Failure to Communicate (00:29:16) A Matter of Perspective (00:38:16) The Burden of Knowledge (00:44:33) Ratings (00:54:29) Final Thoughts (01:00:19) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Live By the Code. In his Rise of the Federation series, Christopher L. Bennett has attempted an ambitious project: telling the story of the early days of the Federation, and showing how we got from there to here (to coin a phrase). Brain-sucking computers, smooth-headed Klingons, and interplanetary bigotry and conflict are just a few of the challenges that the young United Federation of Planets faces during this turbulent time. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther are joined by Bruce Gibson to talk about Live By the Code. We discuss the interesting series, the greater good, Trip’s soul and Section 31, Klingon connections, interference, fanatical racism, a full plate, the problem of dependency and our ratings. In our news segment we discuss the latest comic in the Legacy of Spock series, Ongoing #56. News Ongoing #56 (00:01:48) Feature: Live By the Code Continuing Enterprise (00:08:19) Interesting Stories (00:10:11) The Greater Good (00:11:19) Trip’s Soul and Section 31 (00:17:31) Klingon Connection (00:21:45) Interference (00:27:13) Fanatical Racism (00:41:15) A Full Plate (00:48:21) The Problem of Dependency (00:53:02) Ratings (00:58:55) Final Thoughts (01:03:38) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Star Trek: Mirror Images. The Mirror Universe: there are many familiar faces there, but the reality is very different from our own. Rather than the kind, benevolent Federation we know and love, Earth is at the center of a vast empire, ruled by dark passions and the desire for conquest. There have been many stories set in this dark reality in the 50 years Star Trek has existed, each featuring familiar characters, but with a barbaric twist. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about the comic series Mirror Images. We discuss the fun, characterizations, a focused story, something’s missing, more points, how it wraps up, an interesting interlude and our ratings. In the news segment we discuss the news of DRM free Star Trek books being available. News DRM Free Star Trek Books (00:01:59) Feature: Mirror Images Something Fun (00:10:05) Characterization (00:14:22) Very Focused (00:16:13) Something’s Missing (00:20:54) More Story Points (00:25:08) How it Wraps Up (00:30:37) Interesting Interlude (00:32:47) Ratings (00:36:29) Final Ratings (00:39:34) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Gold Key: Vol. 2: Part 2. The Gold Key comics: The Star Trek that might have been. Though the stories may be somewhat ridiculous and the artwork might not quite look like the Star Trek we know and love, there is still a lot to enjoy about these stories from Star Trek’s early days. Giant space genies, disembodied Vulcan boogeymen, and swashbuckling pirates are the subject of this week’s episode! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about the second half of Gold Key Comics Vol. 2. We discuss Spectre of the Sun, The Brain Shockers, The Flight of the Buccaneer and give our rankings. In the news segment we talk about the latest book news from Margaret Clark. News Book News from Margaret Clark (00:02:01) Feature: Gold Key Vol.2: Part 2 Love These Nights (00:07:21) Spectre of the Sun (00:07:53) The Brain Shockers (00:21:53) The Flight of the Buccaneer (00:32:38) Rankings (00:39:49) Final Thoughts (00:42:54) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer)

Gold Key Comics Vol. 2, Part 1. If the writers and artist in Far Beyond the Stars who worked with Benny wrote and illustrated a comic that imagined the universe of Star Trek, what they would have produced would have surely looked and felt like the Gold Key Comics. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about Gold Key Comics Volume 2. We discuss the evolution of the comics, Voodoo Planet, The Youth Trap, The Legacy of Lazarus and our final thoughts. In the news section we look at the newest comics, Starfleet Academy #2, Ongoing #53 and New Visions #10. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News Starfleet Academy #2 (00:03:43) New Visions #10 (00:09:19) Ongoing #53 (00:12:22) Feature: Gold Key Vol. 2 Evolution of the Comics (00:19:35) Voodoo Planet (00:21:19) The Youth Trap (00:29:24) The Legacy of Lazarus (00:36:22) Final Thoughts (00:46:23) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Child of Two Worlds. 2015 has been a banner year for Star Trek literature. With just one more book to talk about, we go back to where it all began: The Space Ship Enterprise under the command of Captain Christopher Pike. An incident involving a young woman torn between two worlds may lead to open conflict with the Klingon Empire! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about the last new book of the year, Child of Two Worlds. We discuss exploring Spock, another child of two worlds, The Cage era, media, mobs and violence and our ratings. In the news section we announce some news about the upcoming year and look back at our favorite books of 2015. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News Show News (00:02:35) Our Favorite Books of the Year (00:07:13) Feature: Child of Two Worlds End of the Year (00:14:43) Exploring Spock (00:16:03) Another Child of Two Worlds (00:27:42) The Cage Era (00:33:42) Media, Mobs and Violence (00:37:31) Ratings (00:44:27) Final Thoughts of the Year (00:45:55) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

When the Deep Space Nine relaunch began in 2001, readers were treated to a great series of stories that laid the groundwork for the shared continuity of the 24th century novels. Unfortunately, the ongoing story of DS9 under Captain Kira came to an unexpected halt with The Soul Key, the final novel before the narrative was jumped forward to catch up with the rest of the shared universe. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about The Soul Key. We discuss the end, a convoluted plot, Ghemor and her plot, characters we know and love, forgotten characters, comparisons, the cover and our ratings. In the news segment we talk about Ongoing #52 and Star Trek/Green Lantern #6. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News Wrap-Up Podcast (00:03:00) Ongoing #52 (00:04:08) Star Trek/Green Lantern #6 (00:07:11) Feature: The Soul Key The End (00:14:04) Convoluted Plot (00:18:41) Ghemor and Her Plot (00:21:56) Characters We Know and Love (00:24:35) Forgotten Characters (00:28:55) Comparisons (00:33:07) The Cover (00:36:41) Ratings (00:38:34) Final Thoughts (00:41:13) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Seekers 4: All That’s Left. Seeking out strange new worlds and new civilizations was not just the mission of the Enterprise, there were many other ships in Starlet who boldly went forth to do just that and the crew of the Endeavor was no exception. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther welcome authors Dayton Ward and Kevin Dilmore to talk about their latest book in the Seekers series, All That’s Left. We discuss continuing Seekers, a new spin on an old idea, character work, the title, technology, progress and information, artwork, the future of Seekers and what’s next for these gentlemen. In the news segment we discuss Ongoing #52 and the penultimate Star Trek/Green Lantern issue. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Guests Dayton Ward Kevin Dilmore Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News We’ll Let Dayton Tell You (00:02:35) Ongoing #51 (00:03:00) Star Trek/Green Lantern #5 (00:07:14) Feature: All That’s Left Introduction (00:12:13) Continuing Seekers (00:12:56) New Spin on an Old Idea (00:17:56) Character Work (00:23:40) The Title (00:33:38) Technology, Progress and Information (00:36:21) Artwork (00:50:45) The Future of Seekers (00:56:43) What’s Next? (01:00:02) Final Thoughts (01:14:46) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Assimilation²: Volume 2. Doctor Who and Star Trek both continue to delight fans and create new converts even though they have both been around for 50 years and as each new generation finds them, the inevitable question becomes, “What would happen if the two shows crossed over?”. Luckily there are comics to answer that question! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about the Star Trek/Doctor Who crossover comic Assimilation²: Volume 2. We discuss Dan’s progression through Doctor Who, a shift in the comic series, fun things, negotiating with the Borg, the ending and some things we liked and didn’t. In the news segment we mention a few interesting celebrations. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News Celebrations (00:01:33) Feature: Assimilation²: Volume 2 Where Dan is in Doctor Who (00:05:23) Shift in the Series (00:09:45) Fun Things (00:24:54) Negotiating With the Borg (00:31:50) The Ending (00:34:46) Liked or Didn’t (00:36:32) Final Thoughts (00:39:35) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Warpath. Deep Space Nine was the one Star Trek series that was not afraid to show the darker side of the universe, so it should come as no surprise to readers of the relaunch novels that the books continued that tradition as the story continued to unfold. In this episode of Literary Treks Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about David Mack’s book Warpath. We discuss going from bad to worse, lack of direction, main characters that aren’t main, Prynn and Vaughn, setup syndrome, a trip to Bajoran Minis Tirith, person and our ratings. In the news segment we judge the cover to James Swallow’s upcoming book The Latter Fire, talk about the latest issue of Star Trek/Green Lantern and Ongoing’s 50th issue. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Bruce Gibson (Associate Producer) News The Latter Fire Cover (00:01:55) Star Trek/Green Lantern #4 (00:07:58) Star Trek Ongoing #50 (00:10:16) Feature: Warpath Mirror Universe Series (00:17:03) From Bad to Worse (00:18:32) Lack of Direction (00:22:08) Main Characters That Aren’t Main (00:29:25) Prynn and Vaughn (00:31:25) Setup Syndrome (00:35:16) Trip to Bajoran Minis Tirith (00:38:34) Personhood (00:43:26) Ratings (00:46:59) Final Thoughts (00:49:32) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Ferenginar: Satisfaction is Not Guaranteed. The world of Ferenginar was first seen on Star Trek in the Deep Space Nine episode, Family Business and would only be seen one other time in the series yet the planet was home to some of the show’s most beloved characters so it was an obvious choice to visit again in the Worlds of DS9 books. In this episode of Literary Treks Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther brave the weather on Ferenginar to talk about Satisfaction is Not Guaranteed. We discuss this being a “Ferengi Episode”, how it fits with the rest of the book series, an outsider’s look, rounding out Quark, cleaning up the Ferengi, ratings and our final thoughts. In the news we take a look at the latest issue of Star Trek Ongoing, #49. Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) News Star Trek Ongoing #49 (00:02:41) Feature: Satisfaction is Not Guaranteed Ferenginar (00:11:35) The “Ferengi Episode” (00:12:03) Does it Fit? (00:22:05) Outside Looking In (00:26:39) Rounding Out Quark (00:31:53) Cleaning Up the Ferengi (00:36:26) Ratings (00:45:50) Final Thoughts (00:47:10) Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Support the Network! Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep Star Trek talk coming every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Trill: Unjoined. The Deep Space Nine book Unity left the Trill people shaken to their very core with the revelation that the parasites were actually somehow related the symbionts. With the planet in turmoil, Julian Bashir and Ezri Dax travel to Trill in hopes of unraveling the mystery of the parasites and bringing peace to a planet on the brink of civil war.  In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther navigate the deep philosophical waters of Trill: Unjoined. We discuss the world building, a society of secrets, Star Trek genetics gone wrong, the universe being grey, class warfare, history, Julian and Ezri and wrap up with our ratings.  In the news we remind everyone that David Mack's Seekers 3: Long Shot is now available.    Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Executive Producers Norman C. Lao and C Bryan Jones   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Ken Tripp   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Manager Will Nguyen   News Seekers 3 is Out! (00:02:50)   Feature: Trill: Unjoined Worlds of DS9 (00:04:33) The World Building (00:06:11) A Society of Secrets (00:12:13) Star Trek Genetics Gone Wrong (00:20:22) The Universe is Grey (00:24:05) Class Warfare (00:28:16) History (00:37:55) Julian and Ezri (00:43:15) Ratings (00:49:58) Wrapping Up (00:52:16)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming to you every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

New Frontier: The Returned, Part 1. When the New Frontier series began in 1997 it was a bold experiment for Pocket Books, a series without lead characters from on of the Star Trek series. Over the years it's popularity has grown and has a loyal following which has lead to a new three part ebook series.  In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther discuss The Returned, Part 1. We talk about New Frontiers return, working for a resolution, jumping in late, popcorn Trek, the legacy of New Frontier, a demigod, 3 instead of 1, if this is the end and why people should read the series. For the news segment we look at New Visions issue 7 as well as the beginning of The Spectrum War, Star Trek's crossover with Green Lantern.   Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Executive Producers Norman C. Lao and C Bryan Jones   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Ken Tripp   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Manager Will Nguyen   News New Visions 7 (00:02:21) Star Trek/Green Lantern: The Spectrum War (00:08:39)   Feature New Frontier is Back (00:12:38) working for the Resolution (00:14:09) Jumping in Late (00:15:43) Popcorn Trek (00:18:11) New Frontier's Legacy (00:24:54) A Demigod as Deus Ex Machina (00:29:05) 3 Instead of 1 (00:30:19) If This is the End (00:33:01) Why People Should Read New Frontier (00:35:31) Closing (00:38:09)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming 

Ex Machina. The Motion Picture left Star Trek fans with as many questions as it answered and when the story picked up in The Wrath of Khan, a lot of them did not truly get adressed leaving the audience to wonder, what happened to the crew after Kirk said, "Out there..... thataway." In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther discuss Christopher L. Bennett's, Ex Machina. Well talk about what happens after The Motion Picture, the profound changes, the questions the book raises, the McCoy problem, fallout from TMP, true freedom, bad sales and our ratings. In the news segment we have new blubs for upcoming, Voyager, Original Series and Enterprise books to discuss.    Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Executive Producers Norman C. Lao and C Bryan Jones   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Ken Tripp   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Manager Will Nguyen   News New Blubs for VOY, TOS and ENT books (00:03:23)   Feature: Ex Machina After the Motion Picture (00:13:05) Profoundly Changed (00:16:27) The Questions (00:27:20) The McCoy Problem (00:29:55) Fallout from The Motion Picture (00:39:02) True Freedom (00:41:20) Bad Sales (00:50:02) Ratings (00:52:41) Closing (00:55:43)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming to you every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Assimilation². In 1963 a BBC production by the name of Doctor Who premiered and just four years later Star Trek would premiere on NBC. Little did anyone know that these two shows would continue for so long or become such a part of the cultural zeitgeist. Yet the two franchises would not be brought together till 2012 in the form of a comic crossover.  In this episode of Literary Trek hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther talk about the Star Trek: The Next Generation and Doctor Who crossover comic, Assimilation². We discuss the post Wolf 359 Federation, the timeline of the story, being a Doctor Who fan verses a novice, whether Guinan is part Time Lord, the art, crossovers and give our ratings.  For our news segment we judge the covers for Atonement, Star Trek Costumes and Child of Two Worlds, then review Ongoing #45 and New Visions Resistance.    Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Ken Tripp   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Coordinator Will Nguyen   News Atonement Cover (00:02:07) Star Trek Costumes Cover (00:05:34) Child of Two Worlds Cover (00:10:01) Ongoing #45 (00:15:00) New Visions Resistance (00:19:25)   Feature Challenge Accepted (00:24:44) Post Wolf 359 Federation (00:26:42) Timeline (00:31:03) Fan vs Novice (00:37:54) Guinan, Time Lord? (00:42:02) Wrapping it Up (00:44:38) The Art (00:47:43) Crossovers (00:50:00) Ratings (00:52:34) Closing (00:53:56)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming to you every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Unity. In 2001 S.D. Perry kicked off the Deep Space Nine Relaunch and set Star Trek books on a bold new path, continuing the adventures of the crew like more season of the show. As she started the "season" so she would end it, with two books acting as an epic finale, Rising Son and Unity. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther discuss Unity. We talk how it wraps up season 8, how DS9 made another TNG idea better, the path of the Emissary, the impact of the story on The Prophets, time, love and our ratings. In our news segment we look at some of the books and comics we are excited about that are coming out soon.   Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Ken Tripp   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Coordinator Will Nguyen   News Things We're Excited About (00:03:41)   Feature: Unity I Own the Hardback (00:07:08) Setting the Stage (00:08:45) Season 8 Finale (00:11:47) Making TNG Better (00:21:22) The Path of the Emissary (00:27:19) Who are The Prophets? (00:43:59) Time and Love (00:50:14) Ratings (00:55:31) Closing (00:57:51)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming to you every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm

Gold Key Comics Vol.1 Part 2. Starting with issue one, Gold Key created a unique look at what Star Trek might have been without the philosophy Gene Roddenberry and basis in scientific extrapolation. The pulp wackiness of the series has delighted readers for close to 50 years. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther finish their look at the first volume of IDW's reprints. We talk about some of the ways things from the show begin to creep in to the comic, issues 4-6, where we laugh a lot and give our ratings.  In our news segment we review Ongoing #44.    Hosts Matthew Rushing and Dan Gunther   Editor and Producer  Matthew Rushing  Richard Marquez   Associate Producers Will Nguyen Lisa Stevens Kenneth Trip   Production Manager Richard Marquez   Content Coordinator Will Nguyen   News Ongoing #44 (00:03:47)   Feature Gold Key Comics (00:11:50) Back in the Saddle (00:12:02) The Peril of Planet Quick Change (00:16:19) The Ghost Planet (00:29:31) When Planets Collide (00:45:43) Ratings (00:58:41) Closing (01:02:53)   Send us your feedback! Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Visit the Trek.fm website at http://trek.fm/ Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm Goodreads: Goodreads Group    Support the Network!   Become a Trek.fm Patron on Patreon and help us keep our shows coming to you every week. We have great perks for you at http://patreon.com/trekfm